YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea - Soldiers gathered in the Eighth Army headquarters Dec. 17 to witness the inactivation of a unit that served to improve the coordination of American and Korean military.
"The 2503rd Digital Liaison Detachment inactivated as a result of changing mission requirements," said Brig. Gen. Brian J. McKiernan, Eighth Army deputy commanding general for operations.
The unit's history began July 25, 2013 on Yongsan Garrison with the purpose to integrate Eighth Army actions within the Republic of Korea Ground Component Command.
Col. Tyrone Clifton and Sgt. Maj. Harold Hunt served as the detachment's only commander and senior-enlisted members respectively. In the provisional unit's 17-month history, Clifton and Hunt were able to lead the unit to fully-mission capable within 120 days of activation. This included acquiring personnel, equipment and facilities to conduct its mission.
With a very diverse and unique make up of active duty, U.S. Army Reserve, National Guard and KATUSA Soldiers, the 2503rd (DLD) successfully participated in Ulchi Freedom Guardian 2013 and 2014, Key Resolve 2014 and Warfighter simulation exercises with the 17th Infantry Division and 2nd Infantry Division.
"As we inactivate 2503rd [DLD], while we are no in existence after today, our legacy will last forever," said Clifton.
Prior to the unit's inactivation, Clifton received the Legion of Merit for his service in the defense of South Korea. His next assignment will be in Washington, D.C. His wife, Ramona Clifton, was also recognized with the Outstanding Civilian Service Medal for her service to military members, family members and civilians as a Department of Defense employee.
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